Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 23, 2026 —

A fast-moving wildfire, identified as the Hawk Fire, has rapidly expanded to over 10,500 acres in the vicinity of Reno, Nevada. The significant growth of the blaze has necessitated mandatory evacuation orders for approximately 14,000 homes in the affected areas. The fire also poses a direct threat to the University of Nevada campus.

The uncontrolled spread of the Hawk Fire is attributed to a combination of strong winds and extremely dry conditions prevalent within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, where the fire is located. Initial reports indicate that the blaze has already resulted in the destruction of some homes.

In response to the escalating emergency, the governor has declared a state of emergency. This declaration allows for the mobilization of additional resources to combat the fire. The National Guard has also been called upon to assist in the ongoing efforts.

The full extent of the damage, including the precise number of homes destroyed and the specific areas under evacuation, is still being assessed. Information regarding the cause of the fire and the current containment status was not immediately available.



Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.

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